Presents three methods for evaluating the structure of large software systems during the design phase. The three techniques separately test for whether quality goals are met and how they interact; for modifiability and functionality; and for the feasibility and suitability of a set of services provided by a portion of the system. The authors, who are members of Carnegie Mellon's Software Engineering Institute, illustrate how to apply each step of the methods through case studies. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)